But realistically, our time estimates are significantly impacted by when we "want" it to be done. Hence the optimistic view.

Time Estimating Shortcut

The trick I learned from many years of observation was a simple formula.

Actual time = Double the estimate then go to the next higher unit of time

So that hour?

1 hour * 2 = 2 hours. Next highest time unit is a day.

Actual time = 2 days.

And that is precisely how long it took to fix the deck.

It works surprisingly well for many situations where you are doing something brand new, creative or requiring a large team. Of course you can use experience to help guide your estimates but just realize; plumbing is not that same as pouring concrete.

The point here is not the precise formula (though it is a good starting point) but the fact that we very significantly underestimate the work required including learning, rework, trips to seek advice from a professional, missing hardware, painting, etc.

If you realize it is bigger than you think, you may not decide to proceed with it. Or if you do you will take it much more seriously and put the effort into it that is required for success.

And the next time he needed me for an hour or two? There went the weekend.

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Doug Wagner is an entrepreneur, President and Co-founder of Sunwapta Solutions. Sunwapta's mission is to help businesses transform from surviving to thriving, sustainable growth. From strategy to implementation, this means marketing, sales, managing your brand and delivering consistent value. Get more clients and keep them.